The best time of day to eat protein (powder)
Everyone needs protein every day, irrespective of whether they work out regularly or don’t do any sports. When it comes to proper nutrition, it is important to eat protein with every meal. Consuming protein has many advantages (supresses appetite, regulates blood sugar level, helps muscle recovery). If you want to gain lean muscles, and be in better shape it is essential to eat protein, besides exercising regularly.
Eating protein with every meal (4-5 times a day) can be tricky, that’s why many choose to consume it in the form of supplements. Hence comes the question: what are the best times to have a protein shake?
3 of the best times to eat protein
1. Post-workout
Because protein uptake is faster immediately after a workout, that’s when you need protein the most for muscle recovery, and that’s when your body needs proper nutrients the most. People always talk about getting nutrients into your body within 30 minutes after a workout. The truth is that the so called „anabolic window” - when your body uses amino acids better after an intense workout - is much longer than that. So don’t be stressed, if you delay your post-workout meal, even though it is true that a protein shake is ready in no time, and can be prepared anywhere so you can have one in the gym too, right after your workout.
2. In the morning, right after waking up is also an ideal time for consuming protein. This time of the day your body craves for nutrition and protein, because your stomach was empty for a few hours, so the absorption is much faster and more efficient. Eating protein or having a protein shake in the morning can affect your daily eating habit (e.g. control your appetite and cortisol level). In addition, consuming a protein shake helps you to stay hydrated and it is quick to prepare. So there’s no more excuse for not having time for breakfast.
3. Pre-workout
Blood analyses show that for some people consuming protein 1-2 hours before a workout can be even more ideal. The reason is that the right nutrients get to the bloodstream and muscles during the workout, when the muscles need them the most. You have to find out for yourself what is best for you. Naturize can be consumed before the work out, it won’t upset your stomach like whey protein (try to go for a run with your stomach full of whey protein)
So these are the most ideal times to eat protein, but if you feel hungry or have skipped a meal, you can have a shake any time of the day. What is best in a protein shake is that you can have one very easily, all you need is a shaker and some water (you can even make your own natural, additive-free shake just by having a glass and spoon at hand)
How much protein do you need?
We recommend 30 g/1 take. There’s no risk in overdose if you choose an all-natural, allergen-free, unflavored, unsweetened type, but it is unnecessary to consume excess amounts, because your body can only use limited amount of protein at once. Since the daily required amount (1-2 grams per body weight in kgs) can’t be consumed all at once, it is suggested to eat protein with every meal (4-5 times a day).
The purest form of protein powder (with the highest protein content) is always the unflavored protein. Another advantage is that you can add any flavor you want (e.g. fresh fruit, cinnamon, adding to sweet or even salty dishes or cakes) without getting tired of the taste.